I work with a workforce development program that helps people navigate training while on unemployment. Here are some additional facts that might help: 1. You must apply for Training Benefits within the first 52 weeks of your claim 2. If approved for TB, you can get up to 26 additional weeks of benefits beyond your regular UI claim 3. Part-time training doesn't require special approval as long as you maintain your job search requirements 4. For IT specifically, many programs qualify as "high-demand" in Washington state I'd recommend contacting your local WorkSource office too - they have specialists who can help you determine if your training plan will be approved before you invest time applying.

hey what happened with this? did u end up going to school? i'm thinking about it too

Just a tip - make sure you keep doing your weekly claims even while waiting for this to resolve! My cousin missed filing for one week during her adjudication period and then she couldn't claim that week at all when everything else finally got approved.

I went through something very similar last year! My adjudication issue disappeared after about 4 weeks, and I had that same "Processing - Web" status for 6 weeks that were backed up. The good news is that when you see "Processing - Web" with dollar amounts listed, it really does mean you've been approved and the money is coming. In my case, all 6 weeks hit my account at the same time on a Wednesday morning - it was like Christmas! The wait was nerve-wracking but it all worked out. One thing that helped me was setting up text alerts on my bank account so I'd know immediately when the deposit came through. Hang in there - from what you're describing, it sounds like you're in the final stretch of waiting for processing to complete.

Just to add one more important point - there's a time limit for requesting backdates. You generally need to request backdating within a reasonable timeframe after the issue that prevented you from filing is resolved. Since you just got help last week, you should be within this window, but don't delay further. Also, make sure you're very specific about the reasons when you submit your backdate request. Focus on the system issues (unanswered messages in the portal) rather than your uncertainty about how to file. Technical problems and ESD's failure to respond are stronger "good cause" reasons than personal confusion.

I'm dealing with a similar situation right now and this thread has been incredibly helpful! Ruby, I really hope you're able to get your backdate approved. The fact that you have documented evidence of trying to reach ESD through their own system should definitely count as "good cause." One thing I wanted to add that might help - when I was researching this issue, I found that ESD's own policy manual states that their failure to respond to inquiries through official channels (like eServices messages) can constitute good cause for backdating. You might want to reference this specific policy when you make your request. Also, don't let that first rep discourage you. Like others have said, different reps give completely different answers. The key is getting someone who actually understands the backdate process and your rights under it. Keep us updated on how it goes - there are probably other people in similar situations who could benefit from hearing about your experience!

Good luck with your claim! Having witness statements and HR documentation puts you in a much stronger position than most people who try to prove hostile work environment.

I went through something similar last year with psychological harassment from my manager. Washington ESD approved my claim, but the key was showing a clear pattern of behavior that escalated over time. Beyond what others mentioned, I'd recommend keeping a timeline that shows how the hostile environment progressively worsened - this helped demonstrate that quitting was inevitable rather than impulsive. Also, if you have any performance reviews from before the harassment started showing you were a good employee, that can counter any claims that you were terminated for poor performance. The medical documentation you mentioned for stress-related issues is really valuable too.

Wait I'm confused... is an appeal different from adjudication? My claim has been in adjudication for 5 weeks now. Is that the same thing or different?

Just wanted to add something that helped me during my appeal process - if you're struggling financially while waiting, check if you qualify for emergency assistance programs. I applied for emergency rental assistance through my county and food assistance through DSHS while my appeal was pending. It helped bridge the gap during those 3.5 months I was waiting. Also, when you file your appeal, consider sending it certified mail with return receipt requested. I did regular mail and spent weeks worried they didn't receive it. The peace of mind is worth the extra few dollars. One more thing - start keeping a detailed log of every interaction you have with ESD (dates, times, who you spoke with, what was discussed). It can be really helpful if there are any discrepancies later. Good luck with your appeal!